Crusaders hold title chasers

Hungerford picked up a big point in their battle for survival whilst denting Woking’s title hopes. The Cards were on top for much of the match but left frustrated by a workman like Hungerford side and a lack of ruthlessness in front of goal. Striker Jake Hyde was a focal point up front for the visitors and he had the first chance forcing a one handed save from Michael Luyambula before hitting a low strike straight at the goalkeeper a minute later. Paul Hodges was also influential in the Woking attacks looking to shift the ball onto his left foot. His long-range effort was pushed clear by Luyambula before the resulting corner saw the goalkeeper comfortably save Ben Gering’s header. Despite the pressure the hosts had a great chance 20 minutes in when Matt Jones free kick was perfectly placed for Josh Martin but the centre back headed wide. Armani Little's rocket of a free kick whistled past the post as Luyambula was rooted to the spot and luckily for the goalkeeper the strike went wide. Dave Tarpey had his first good chance from a Greg Luer long throw but lashed his effort over. Hodges tested Luyambula from a short corner before James Rusby headed over for the Crusaders to end the half level.

Despite the one-way traffic the Crusaders started the second half with more ambition and were rewarded when Orsi-Dadomo’s saved shot rebounded to Alfy Whittingham who smashed home into the roof of the net. However, the lead was to only last eight minutes when a Josh Casey floated free kick sailed past everyone and into the net. Hyde should have made it 2-1 but poked wide of the post after beating the goalkeeper. Centre back Moussa Diarra had the last big chance with his flicked header straight at the hosts goalie. Woking brought on Harvey Bradbury late on but the striker, who started the season off at Bulpit Lane, failed to make the decisive impact despite his more ariel threat in place of Hodges causing further problems to the home defence. Despite lots of late pressure, which pinned Hungerford back into their own half, the Cards were left frustrated at the final whistle.

It means they couldn't take advantage of Torquay United's surprise slip up to bottom club Weston Super-Mare. Weston's win means the gap between them and Hungerford has been reduced to 4 points ahead of next weekends clash at the Woodspring. However it could be one point if the Seagulls win the first of their two games in hand against Wealdstone on Tuesday night. Other results also didn't do Hungerford any favours. East Thurrock picked up a 2-1 win against 4th placed Billericay whilst Gloucester held play off chasing Wealdstone to a 0-0 draw